Ecologist

The National Park Service is hiring an Ecologist for a temporary position in Yosemite Valley, CA, lasting up to one year with potential extensions. The role involves developing ecological management strategies for aquatic wildlife, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and managing threatened species. Responsibilities include fieldwork and office tasks, requiring physical stamina. The position offers a salary range of $72,553 to $94,317 annually and is open to the first 101 applicants until November 29, 2024. JOB SUMMARY: This position is located in Yosemite National Park, in the Division of Resources Management and Science. This is a temporary promotion not to exceed 1 year, and can be extended up to 5 years. Open to the first 101 applicants or until 11/29/2024 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration. MAJOR DUTIES: Serve as Ecologist under the direction of the Branch Chief of Aquatic Wildlife of the Resources Management and Science Division in Yosemite National Park. Develop and implement science-based ecological management mitigation strategies for aquatic wildlife. Use scientifically sound management and knowledge of aquatic ecology principles to mitigate or minimize proposed or planned project impacts to native aquatic species and habitat and to design and implement appropriate management actions to mitigate these threats and satisfy legal requirements. Lead or assist with minimal supervision in the planning, design, implementation, and resolution park compliance related document preparation pertaining to aquatic wildlife and associated habitats, including NEPA (e.g., Categorical Exclusions, Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Statements), Biological Assessments for threatened and endangered species consultation (Section 7 Endangered Species Act, and Minimum Requirement Analyses for work in Wilderness settings. Implement effective ecologically-based aquatic wildlife management activities that include protection and restoration of threatened or endangered species (such as Sierra Nevada Yellow-legged frog, California Red-legged frog, Foothill Yellow-legged frog, Yosemite toad, and Western Pond turtle while controlling exotic animals such as American bullfrogs, crayfish and red-eared slider, through the development of management goals and objectives designed to achieve identified restoration goals, and implement effective monitoring strategies to ensure goals and objectives are met. Develop personal contacts with other ecologists, resource managers, and subject matter experts of other agencies to promote the core long-term mission of the agency in the preservation and effective management of natural resources. Perform long periods of indoor sedentary office work (document writing) as well as engage in strenuous work outdoors in physically dangerous areas (construction zones) or settings (helicopters) in all types of weather hiking long distances and carrying heavy objects. IMPORTANT: Click the 'Apply for this job' button to view a complete job description.